Hammond standing by Colliver after early release from prison

Having a job to return to played a big part in Joe Colliver's early release under curfew through the Home Detention Scheme, and he was welcomed back by Micky Hammond.

"I spoke for Joe in court and I said his job was safe," the trainer said. "He'd been a foolish lad and he was full of remorse. I think the sentence was very fair."

But there was no question of picking up just where he'd left off – he had to work his way back.

"Joe is back working here full-time," Hammond said. "The BHA gave him his licence back when the tag came off but I told him that he wouldn't get back on all the horses.

"He rode Just Cameron in the Champion Chase last year but now Henry Brooke is on him – Joe has got to work his way back."

Read the full story of how Joe Colliver ended up in prison, plus his account of the stresses riders face.